After a career spent working around the globe, UK-native Keith Woodmass joined the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) in May this year as Production Manager. Below we catch up with Keith to find out a bit more about his life and goals for Oceania football.
OFC: How does a man from Newcastle in the far north of England end up working in the Oceania region?
KW: One word, football.
Seriously this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to be responsible for all live football production for OFC and to ensure that the beautiful game of the Pacific Islands reaches its biggest audience.
Are you a lifelong Newcastle United fan?
Yes. Every Newcastle United fan has their own unique reasons that shape and fuel their passion for the club. I was born in Newcastle and feel the direct and immediate impact of the club’s success and failures. One City, One Team. For better or for worse, the saying “there is never a dull day at St. James’ Park” really rings true for Newcastle United fans.
Supporting the Toon is a roller-coaster of a ride, and I wouldn’t change it for all the money in the world. Why? Well, life would be rather boring without all the second-by-second ups and downs of Newcastle United.
I dream to wear the No.9 of Newcastle United and score the winning goal against Sunderland in the Gallowgate End at St. James’ Park. One day, maybe one day.
Tell us a bit more about yourself…
I am an unassuming recluse that considers himself to be very lucky to travel the world as a creative director, executing award-wining advertising campaigns, strategising million-dollar sports brands and mentoring first-class creative leaders in the USA, Europe, the UK and Oceania.
I dream of scoring the winning goal in the FIFA World Cup Final. My footballing heroes are Edson Arantes do Nascimento (Pelè), Johan Cruyff and Sir Bobby Robson. One of my favourite quotes is from Liverpool legend Bill Shankly: “Some people believe football is a matter of life and death, I am very disappointed with that attitude. I can assure you it is much, much more important than that.”
What’s an interesting fact that not many people know about you?
I am a multi-lingual. I once learned Dutch in a full immersion experience over five days. Although, I need to practice more frequently.
Your career in TV production spans across 25 years, tell us some of the most interesting work you’ve done?
Twenty five years… thank you for reminding me! Please can you recommend the nearest stockist of Botox?
During my career I have launched a global multi-platform TV channel and eight TV sports channels in Europe. I’ve filmed Olympic, World and European champions in three continents, directed brand campaigns for 19 regional sports networks in the USA and rebranded 30+ TV channels internationally.
Lastly, I’ve won 36 awards for branding, design, art direction, directing, copywriting, editing and audio. I would not have been successful without the support, commitment and hard work of my sporting heroes, business leaders and talented colleagues. I am forever grateful to all these amazing people.
What project are you most proud of?
This may sound cliché, or a politician’s answer, but I will be proudest of my next project. With each new project, I am driven to create better than before.
What are the key things you want to achieve in the next little while at OFC?
To build a best-in-class production team that is filled with brilliant individuals working together to produce an exceptional product.
To create live football productions that generate a global fan base for the Pacific Islands and create loyal raving fans for generations to come.
To fully support OFC’s vision to qualify two football teams for both the FIFA World Cup 2026 and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.
Ends